Happy New Year! The craft pictured above is easy to complete andchocked full of language and learning opportunities! Besides teaching about the year 2018, your child can also practice number recognition and formation. We chose to use craft jewels to form the mosaic, but you could use sequins, buttons, or any small craft materials you desire.

Begin by explaining that we have started a new year, 2018. Write it on a piece of paper and say, “The new year looks like this: 2018.” For the actual craft you can choose to write out the year or have your child do it.

Once the numbers are written, explain the directions by using the target vocabulary. (i.e. "First we write the numbers. Then we put glue on the paper. Next, take a jewel and put it on the glue.") While explaining this, demonstrate how to make the mosaic by putting glue on only a small section of a number and placing a jewel or two on the glue. Visual models can help kiddos process complex directives. Then say, “We have to finish covering the numbers so we can make the 2018 look fancy.” (Or some variation of this)

You can target the skill of requesting by keeping craft supplies slightly out of reach. This provides a natural opportunity for your kiddo to ask for the necessary materials. Model appropriate requests to help your child with this skill and reduce frustration. You can say, "Don't forget to ask for MORE GLUE or MORE PAPER when you need some.”

Help your kiddo to practice responding to “what” and “where” questions like, “What do we need next?” Or “Where will you put that jewel?” If your child has difficulty answering questions, you can pose the questions and model the responses too (i.e. “What do we need? We need more glue.”).

Your adjectives may vary based on the materials you use to form the mosaic. Since we used jewels, we described the picture as “sparkly” and “shiny.” We also commented on the status of the glue during times when the craft was "wet" and “sticky” and later when it was “dry.”